Getting your business listed on Google is one of the most important steps you can take for your online visibility. When potential customers search for products or services you offer, a Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business) helps you appear in local search results and on Google Maps. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about adding your business to Google.
Why Adding Your Business to Google Matters
Before we dive into the how-to, it’s worth understanding why this matters. When someone searches for a business like yours, Google often displays a map with local businesses, along with key information like hours, phone numbers, and reviews. If your business isn’t listed, you’re essentially invisible to these potential customers. A verified Google Business Profile can significantly increase your local visibility, drive more traffic to your website, and bring customers through your door.
What You’ll Need Before You Start
To add your business to Google, you should have the following information ready:
- Your exact business name as it appears to customers
- Your business address (if you have a physical location customers can visit)
- Your business category (what type of business you operate)
- Your phone number
- Your website URL (if you have one)
- Your business hours
- A Google account (you can create one for free if you don’t have one)
Step-by-Step Guide to Adding Your Business
Step 1: Search for Your Business First
Before creating a new listing, search for your business on Google or Google Maps to make sure it doesn’t already exist. Sometimes Google automatically creates listings based on publicly available information, or a previous owner might have created one. If you find an existing listing, you’ll need to claim it rather than create a new one.
Step 2: Go to Google Business Profile
Visit google.com/business or search for “Google Business Profile” in your browser. Click on “Manage now” to get started. You’ll be prompted to sign in to your Google account or create one if you don’t have one already.
Step 3: Enter Your Business Name
Type in your business name exactly as it appears to customers. As you type, Google will show you similar existing businesses. If you see your business listed, select it to claim it. If not, click “Add your business to Google” at the bottom of the suggestions.
Step 4: Choose Your Business Category
Select the category that best describes your business. This is important because it helps Google understand what you do and show your business to the right people. You can add additional categories later, but start with your primary one. For example, if you run a coffee shop, you might select “Coffee shop” as your category.
Step 5: Add Your Location
If you have a physical location where customers can visit you, select “Yes” and enter your complete address. Make sure this matches your actual business address exactly. If you serve customers at their locations (like a plumber or delivery service) but don’t have a storefront, you can select “No” and then specify your service areas instead.
Step 6: Provide Contact Information
Enter your business phone number and website URL. The phone number should be one that’s answered during business hours. If you don’t have a website yet, you can skip this or use Google’s free website builder to create a simple one through your Business Profile.
Step 7: Verification
This is a critical step. Google needs to verify that you’re authorized to manage this business listing. The most common verification method is by postcard. Google will mail a postcard with a verification code to your business address, which typically arrives within five days. Other verification options might include phone, email, or instant verification (if you’ve already verified your business website with Google Search Console).
Once you receive your verification code, log back into your Google Business Profile and enter the code. Your listing will then be live on Google.
After Verification: Optimizing Your Profile
Getting verified is just the beginning. To make the most of your Google Business Profile, you should complete and optimize all available sections:
Add Photos: Upload high-quality photos of your business, products, services, and team. Businesses with photos receive significantly more engagement than those without.
Write a Business Description: Create a compelling description that tells customers what makes your business unique. You have up to 750 characters, so make them count.
Set Accurate Hours: Include your regular hours, special hours for holidays, and any seasonal changes. Keeping this updated prevents frustrated customers from showing up when you’re closed.
Add Attributes: Depending on your business type, you can add specific attributes like “wheelchair accessible,” “outdoor seating,” or “free Wi-Fi.” These help customers understand what to expect.
Enable Messaging: Turn on the messaging feature so customers can contact you directly through your listing with questions.
Create Posts: Share updates, offers, events, and news through Google Posts. These appear in your Business Profile and can help attract attention.
Managing Your Google Business Profile:
Once your business is added to Google, your work isn’t done. Regular management is essential for maintaining a strong presence. Respond to customer reviews promptly and professionally, whether they’re positive or negative. Update your information whenever something changes, like your hours, phone number, or services offered. Monitor the insights Google provides about how customers find and interact with your listing, and use this data to improve your strategy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
Many businesses make preventable errors when adding their business to Google. Don’t create duplicate listings for the same location, as this confuses customers and can harm your visibility. Avoid keyword stuffing in your business name (your name should be just your actual business name, not “Joe’s Pizza Best NYC Delivery”). Don’t use a PO Box as your address if you have a physical location. And resist the temptation to delete and recreate your profile if you have negative reviews; instead, address them professionally and work to earn better ones.
What If You Have Multiple Locations?
If your business operates in multiple locations, you’ll need to create separate profiles for each location. Google offers bulk upload options for businesses with ten or more locations, which can streamline this process significantly. Each location should have its own unique information, photos, and management.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If your verification postcard doesn’t arrive after two weeks, you can request another one. If your business listing was suspended or rejected, review Google’s guidelines to understand why and address the issue. If someone else has claimed your listing, you can request ownership through the “Own this business?” option when you search for it.
The Bottom Line
Adding your business to Google is a straightforward process that delivers tremendous value. Your Google Business Profile serves as a powerful, free marketing tool that connects you with customers at the exact moment they’re searching for what you offer. By taking the time to create a complete, accurate, and engaging profile, you’re setting your business up for greater visibility and success in your local market. The effort you invest in setting up and maintaining your Google Business Profile will pay dividends in increased foot traffic, phone calls, and ultimately, revenue.
